1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo XC90 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 41 kg more than 2009 Volvo XC90.
Because 2009 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Volvo XC90 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1369 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 72 L |
